The European Commission has unveiled a new Citizens’ Energy Package aimed at making clean and affordable energy more accessible to households across Europe. Presented in March 2026, the package forms part of the EU’s broader efforts to reduce energy prices, strengthen energy independence, introducing recommendations aimed at protecting vulnerable households and accelerate the green transition while ensuring no citizen is left behind.
At a time when many European households continue to struggle with rising living costs and energy bills, the package places citizens at the centre of energy policy. The Commission highlights that the transition towards cleaner energy should not only benefit industries and governments, but also empower people directly through lower bills, stronger consumer rights, and greater participation in local energy systems. The initiative also recognises the growing role of local energy communities. Across Europe, citizens, municipalities and cooperatives are increasingly joining forces to produce, consume and share renewable energy locally. The Commission views these community-led approaches as an important tool for increasing access to affordable clean energy while strengthening citizen participation in the energy transition.
Furthermore, the package includes measures designed to help consumers switch energy suppliers more easily, improve transparency on energy contracts and bills, and reduce taxes and levies on electricity where possible. It also seeks to support citizens who want to generate and share their own renewable energy through initiatives such as energy communities and self-consumption schemes.
Civil society and energy organisations have broadly welcomed the package, particularly its emphasis on affordability, citizen empowerment and community energy initiatives. However, some stakeholders have also stressed the importance of ensuring strong implementation at national level and addressing remaining gaps, including gender inequalities and access barriers for vulnerable groups.
As Europe continues to navigate geopolitical instability, energy security concerns and climate challenges, the Citizens’ Energy Package signals a shift towards a more citizen-focused energy system. By combining affordability, participation and sustainability, the Commission aims to ensure that Europe’s clean energy transition delivers tangible benefits for households and communities across the EU.
